Be careful what you search for, your “OK Google” requests are kept on file

It’s easy and modern, and you’ve most likely done it with your smartphone: “OK Google…” You also might have tapped the microphone to dictate a message. Rumor has it that Google has kept every single one of those recordings.

Earlier this month Google launched its new “My Account” feature to give its users a better idea — and more control — over what information it collects. By now it’s obvious that Google stores your text searches, but what’s becoming clear is that the tech giant also keeps a recording of your actual voice.

To back itself up, Google mentioned on its website that these recordings allow it to better recognize your voice, and to more accurately accomplish tasks. As helpful as these practices may seem in theory, many users find them invasive. If you have a Google account, you’re able to find the collection of recordings in a section called “Voice and Audio Activity.”

Although it’s not clear how long the company keeps these files, the recordings go back for months, but users are able to delete them. Google has also given users the option to opt out of this storage process, so if the thought of Google keeping recordings of your voice doesn’t sit right with you, you can ask it to stop.

Obviously Google is not the only company storing and learning its users’ voices and information. Apple’s Siri keeps recordings on file for up to two years to learn its users’ habits. Microsoft’s Cortana similarly collects users’ information.

So it’s no surprise your phone, computer, and other devices know you way too well. And, you know what they say, once it’s on the Internet, it lives forever. 

Source: CNN